Global Trade

Free trade agreements undermine government policies that protect local farmers’ livelihoods, help countries maintain agricultural self-sufficiency and preserve the environment for future generations.

Rural America has been devastated by these so-called “free trade” agreements, which lift tariffs and import quotas between nations. In the past ten years, the amount of food being imported to the United States has doubled. As a result, the market is flooded and the price of crops is falling fast. Local farmers across the nation are at risk of losing their land and their livelihoods as their crops are forced to compete.

At the same time, the U.S. government is handing out billions of dollars in subsidies to large-scale producers, enabling them to dump food on the market at prices significantly lower than the cost to grow it. Agribusiness’ unfair advantage has forced thousands of small-scale farms throughout the world into bankruptcy.

Read More from Food & Water Watch on Global Trade and Food Safety:

Our report, A Decade of Dangerous Food Imports from China, looks at a well-documented pattern of chemical adulteration and unsafe drug residues in food imported to the United States from China. It also explores a common-sense approach to to inspecting imported food and preventing the globalization of the food supply from sickening our citizens.

Food & Water Watch champions healthy food and clean water for all. We stand up to corporations that put profits before people, and advocate for a democracy that improves people's lives and protects our environment.